Definition of old master

The term "Old Master" originally emerged in the 19th century as a collector's and art dealer's label for the works of established European artists from the Middle Ages to the early 18th century. The term "Master" was commonly used in the art world since the Middle Ages to denote artists believed to have great skill in their craft. The phrase "Old Master" gained popularity in the art market during the Romantic era, when art buyers became more interested in pieces with historical and cultural significance. This label helped to distinguish these traditional artworks from the more contemporary art being produced during the time. Initially, the term "Old Master" was interpreted in a narrow sense, applying to only Northern European artists such as Jan van Eyck, Albrecht Dürer, and Rembrandt van Rijn. Over time, as international appreciation for the works of southern European artists such as Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini grew, the phrase's scope expanded to encompass artists from other regions as well. Today, the use of the term "Old Master" continues in various contexts, including academic discourse, museum exhibits, and art auctions. While some art collectors and historians find the terminology outdated, it remains a widely recognized category in the art world that helps to clarify the age and style of the works in question.